This book aims to give staff a framework for understanding and addressing the problems that arise when an individual has both learning disabilities and personality disorder. After reading this book, staff will have a good understanding of what personality disorder is, how to recognise it and some of the possible causes. They will learn how personality disorder is shaped by an individual's intellectual disability and the types of difficulties this will lead to. They will have explored a range of practical approaches to these difficulties that should help them work more effectively with this client group both individually and as a team.
Prior to training as a clinical psychologist, Zillah worked in a number of different hospitals for people with intellectual disabilities or mental health problems, including as a volunteer support worker, psychiatric nursing assistant and assistant psychologist. Zillah completed her BSc in Psychology in 1981 at the University of Birmingham and in 1984 she gained her MSc in Clinical Psychology at the University of Surrey. She then undertook two years training in family therapy resulting in a Certificate in Family Therapy from Birkbeck College and the Institute of Family Therapy. In 2004 she gained her doctorate in clinical psychology from Canterbury Christ Church University College. The specialist focus of her doctorate was autistic spectrum disorders. In 1989 Zillah became a chartered clinical psychologist with the British Psychological Society and from June 2011 she has been a registered clinical psychologist with the Health and Care Professions Council. Since qualifying, Zillah has worked in a range of roles in the NHS in services for children (CAMHS and paediatrics) and individuals with intellectual disabilities including community and inpatient settings. She has also worked in the voluntary sector in a specialist service for individuals on the autistic spectrum. Her current role is in a specialist inpatient service for individuals with intellectual disabilities and mental health problems.
Foreword 1. Introduction: personality disorder and individuals with intellectual disabilities 2. Unhealthy self-image and low self-esteem 3. Emotional distress 4. Difficulties with interpersonal relationships 5. Difficulties in relations with staff 6. Difficulties with self-control and impulsivity 7. Distorted thinking 8. Physical health problems 9. Mental health problems 10. Challenging behaviours 11. Suicidal behaviour and self-harm 12. Crisis management 13. Difficulties engaging with services 14. Tensions and disagreements within and between teams 15. Difficulties with relatives, family and partners
